Surface cleaning device for outdoor photovoltaic installations

By designing an automated photovoltaic panel cleaning device, utilizing a drive motor and threaded rod system, combined with a water distribution plate, nozzles, and rubber scrapers, the problem of high cost and low efficiency of manual cleaning of photovoltaic panels is solved, achieving a highly efficient and uniform cleaning effect, protecting the panels and improving power generation efficiency.

CN224305733UActive Publication Date: 2026-05-29CANGZHOU JIANTOU NEW ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
CANGZHOU JIANTOU NEW ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-01-20
Publication Date
2026-05-29

Smart Images

  • Figure CN224305733U_ABST
    Figure CN224305733U_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The utility model relates to photovoltaic equipment cleaning device technical field, concretely is outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device, including support frame, photovoltaic panel, base and cleaning mechanism, the top of base is installed support frame, the top of support frame is installed photovoltaic panel, install cleaning mechanism on photovoltaic panel, cleaning mechanism includes rectangular block, rectangular groove, threaded rod, drive motor, sliding block, water distribution plate, shower nozzle, water storage bucket, connecting pipe and pump body, can according to actual cleaning demand control drive motor's forward rotation and reverse rotation, namely the back and forth movement of sliding block on threaded rod, and the shower nozzle continuously or intermittently carries out water spraying cleaning to photovoltaic panel surface to remove dust, dirt and other pollutants, after cleaning, close drive motor and pump body, check and clean water storage bucket, add cleaning agent or replace water if necessary.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of photovoltaic equipment cleaning devices, specifically an outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, with the increasing global demand for renewable energy, solar energy, as a clean and sustainable energy form, has been widely used. Photovoltaic (PV) systems, as key equipment for solar energy utilization, are becoming increasingly common in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. However, PV panels are typically installed outdoors and exposed to natural conditions, making them susceptible to dust, bird droppings, leaves, and other pollutants. These pollutants can significantly reduce the energy conversion efficiency of PV panels, thereby affecting the performance and economic benefits of the entire system.

[0003] Traditional manual cleaning methods rely on regularly dispatching staff for cleaning. This method not only consumes a lot of human resources but is also costly. It is difficult to guarantee the strength and uniformity of manual cleaning, which can easily create blind spots and affect the surface material of photovoltaic panels. At the same time, the use of high-pressure water guns may also cause physical damage to photovoltaic panels. Utility Model Content

[0004] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this utility model provides a surface cleaning device for outdoor photovoltaic equipment.

[0006] (II) Technical Solution

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution: an outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device, comprising a support frame, a photovoltaic panel, a base, and a cleaning mechanism. The support frame is mounted on the top of the base, and the photovoltaic panel is mounted on the top of the support frame. The cleaning mechanism is mounted on the photovoltaic panel, and the cleaning mechanism includes a rectangular block, a rectangular groove, a threaded rod, a drive motor, a slider, a water distribution plate, a nozzle, a water storage tank, a connecting pipe, and a pump body. The rectangular block is mounted on one end of the top wall of the photovoltaic panel, and the rectangular block has a groove on the side near the photovoltaic panel. A rectangular groove is provided, within which a threaded rod is rotatably mounted. A drive motor is mounted on one side wall of a rectangular block, and the output end of the drive motor passes through the side wall of the rectangular block and connects to the threaded rod. A slider is threaded onto the threaded rod, and a water distribution plate is fixedly mounted on the side wall of the slider. A nozzle is mounted on the bottom wall of the water distribution plate, and a water storage tank is mounted on the top wall of the base. A connecting pipe is mounted on the top of the water storage tank, and the output end of the connecting pipe passes through the top wall of the water distribution plate and extends into its inner cavity. A pump body is mounted on the outer wall of the connecting pipe.

[0008] In order to pre-treat the photovoltaic panel in advance, the present invention is improved by having a connecting plate installed on the front side wall of the water distribution plate through multiple sets of connecting blocks, and a cleaning brush installed on the bottom wall of the connecting plate.

[0009] In order to remove water from the photovoltaic panel after rinsing, the present invention is improved by installing a rubber scraper on the bottom wall of the end of the water distribution plate away from the cleaning brush.

[0010] To guide the movement of the water distribution plate, this utility model is improved by installing a guide seat at the other end of the top wall of the photovoltaic panel. A groove is formed on the side wall of the guide seat near the rectangular block. A guide rod is fixedly installed in the groove. A guide block is slidably installed on the guide rod. The guide block is fixedly connected to the side wall of the water distribution plate away from the slider.

[0011] Preferably, the present invention is improved in that the nozzle is designed to be inclined.

[0012] Preferably, the present invention is improved in that telescopic curtains are installed at both the left and right ends of the slider.

[0013] Preferably, an improvement of this utility model is that a vibration motor is installed at the top of the connecting plate.

[0014] Preferably, the improvement of this utility model is that the cleaning brush is made of nylon material.

[0015] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0016] Compared with the prior art, this utility model provides an outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device, which has the following beneficial effects:

[0017] This outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device utilizes a cleaning mechanism that employs a drive motor to rotate a threaded rod, allowing a slider to move smoothly along a rectangular groove. This mechanized operation not only increases the speed of cleaning but also ensures consistency and uniformity in each cleaning process. The combination of the water distribution plate and nozzle design ensures that water flow evenly covers every corner of the photovoltaic panel, effectively removing dust, dirt, and other contaminants. The cleaning process can be automated by controlling the forward and reverse rotation of the drive motor to adjust the slider's direction. This significantly reduces the need for manual intervention, lowers labor costs, and improves work efficiency.

[0018] This outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device, with its nylon cleaning brush and vibrating motor, significantly improves the efficiency and quality of cleaning without damaging the photovoltaic panels, ensuring that the panels are always in optimal working condition. Combined with the vibration function, it may reduce the reliance on water resources to some extent, as a more efficient cleaning method means that fewer rinses or less water may be needed to achieve the same cleaning standard, which is of positive significance for water conservation and environmental protection.

[0019] This outdoor photovoltaic (PV) equipment surface cleaning device uses a rubber scraper. When the slider moves, the rubber scraper adheres closely to the PV panel surface, immediately removing excess water. This feature ensures that the PV panel dries quickly after cleaning, reducing secondary pollution or water stains caused by residual moisture. A clean and dry PV panel can more effectively absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. The rubber scraper ensures that the panel surface quickly returns to its optimal state after cleaning, thus maintaining its high power generation efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the retractable curtain of this utility model after it is concealed.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the photovoltaic panel of this utility model after it is hidden.

[0023] Figure 4 This is an enlarged structural diagram of part A in this utility model;

[0024] Figure 5 This is an enlarged structural diagram of part B in this utility model.

[0025] In the diagram: 1. Support frame; 2. Photovoltaic panel; 3. Base; 4. Rectangular block; 5. Rectangular groove; 6. Threaded rod; 7. Drive motor; 8. Slider; 9. Water distribution plate; 10. Nozzle; 11. Water storage tank; 12. Connecting pipe; 13. Pump body; 14. Connecting block; 15. Connecting plate; 16. Cleaning brush; 17. Rubber scraper; 18. Guide seat; 19. Groove; 20. Guide rod; 21. Guide block; 22. Telescopic curtain; 23. Vibration motor. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0027] Please see Figure 1-5 An outdoor photovoltaic (PV) equipment surface cleaning device includes a support frame 1, a PV panel 2, a base 3, and a cleaning mechanism. The support frame 1 is mounted on the top of the base 3, and the PV panel 2 is mounted on the top of the support frame 1. The cleaning mechanism is mounted on the PV panel 2. The cleaning mechanism includes a rectangular block 4, a rectangular groove 5, a threaded rod 6, a drive motor 7, a slider 8, a water distribution plate 9, a nozzle 10, a water storage tank 11, a connecting pipe 12, and a pump body 13. The rectangular block 4 is mounted on one end of the top wall of the PV panel 2, and the rectangular block 4 has a rectangular groove on the side closest to the PV panel 2. The rectangular groove 5 contains a threaded rod 6 rotatably mounted therein. A drive motor 7 is mounted on one side wall of the rectangular block 4. The output end of the drive motor 7 passes through the side wall of the rectangular block 4 and connects to the threaded rod 6. A slider 8 is threaded onto the threaded rod 6. A water distribution plate 9 is fixedly mounted on the side wall of the slider 8. A nozzle 10 is mounted on the bottom wall of the water distribution plate 9. A water storage tank 11 is mounted on the top wall of the base 3. A connecting pipe 12 is mounted on the top of the water storage tank 11. The output end of the connecting pipe 12 passes through the top wall of the water distribution plate 9 and extends into its inner cavity. The pump body 13 is installed on the outer wall of the connecting pipe 12. In this embodiment, firstly, ensure that the entire outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device is correctly installed, including the stable installation of the support frame 1, photovoltaic panel 2, and base 3, and ensure that electrical components such as the drive motor 7 and pump body 13 are working properly. When it is necessary to clean the photovoltaic panel 2, start the drive motor 7. The output end of the drive motor 7 drives the threaded rod 6 to rotate. When the threaded rod rotates, it drives the slider 8 to move along the rectangular groove 5. The water distribution plate 9 and the nozzle 10 on the slider 8 also move accordingly. At the same time, turn on the pump body 13 to circulate the cleaning water in the water storage tank 11. The water is delivered to the water distribution plate 9 through the connecting pipe 12 and sprayed evenly onto the photovoltaic panel 2 through the nozzle 10. Since the photovoltaic panel 2 is usually installed at an angle, each cleaning process is carried out by moving from the highest point to the lowest point. The forward and reverse rotation of the drive motor 7 can be controlled according to the actual cleaning needs, that is, the back and forth movement of the slider 8 on the threaded rod 6. The nozzle 10 continuously or intermittently sprays water to clean the surface of the photovoltaic panel 2, thereby removing dust, dirt and other contaminants. After cleaning, the drive motor 7 and pump body 13 are turned off, the water tank 11 is checked and cleaned, and cleaning agent is added or water is replaced if necessary.

[0028] In actual use, the photovoltaic panel 2 is further pre-treated. In this embodiment, the front side wall of the water distribution plate 9 is equipped with the connecting plate 15 through multiple sets of connecting blocks 14. The bottom wall of the connecting plate 15 is equipped with the cleaning brush 16. As the slider 8 moves, the cleaning brush 16 on the bottom wall of the connecting plate 15 first contacts the surface of the photovoltaic panel 2 and performs preliminary cleaning of stubborn foreign objects on the path to be cleaned by the nozzle 10. This helps to further loosen those tightly adhered stains and impurities. These loosened foreign objects will be dispersed to prepare for the subsequent rinsing steps.

[0029] In actual use, the photovoltaic panel 2 is further dehydrated after rinsing. In this embodiment, a rubber scraper 17 is installed on the bottom wall of the water-dividing plate 9 away from the cleaning brush 16. When the slider 8 moves, the rubber scraper 17 is in close contact with the surface of the photovoltaic panel 2 to scrape off excess water from the panel surface. This process can ensure that the panel surface dries quickly after cleaning, avoiding stains caused by water residue or damage caused by long-term water accumulation.

[0030] In actual use, the movement of the water-dividing plate 9 is further guided. In this embodiment, a guide seat 18 is installed at the other end of the top wall of the photovoltaic panel 2. A groove 19 is opened on the side wall of the guide seat 18 near the rectangular block 4. A guide rod 20 is fixedly installed in the groove 19. A guide block 21 is slidably installed on the guide rod 20. The guide block 21 is fixedly connected to the side wall of the water-dividing plate 9 away from the slider 8. When the drive motor 7 starts and drives the threaded rod 6 to rotate, the slider 8 begins to move along the rectangular groove 5. Since one end of the water-dividing plate 9 is fixed by the slider 8, while the other end is fixed by the guide block 21... Connected to the guide rod 20, the water distribution plate 9 can move smoothly and linearly along the surface of the photovoltaic panel 2. This design ensures that the water distribution plate 9, cleaning brush 16, and rubber scraper 17 can evenly cover the entire surface of the photovoltaic panel 2. The design of the guide rod 20 and guide block 21 ensures that the water distribution plate 9 can maintain linear movement during the cleaning process, avoiding possible deviation or shaking, improving cleaning efficiency and quality. With the addition of the guide system, the entire cleaning mechanism is more stable, especially when facing external interference factors such as wind, it can still maintain a good working state and reduce the uneven cleaning phenomenon caused by structural instability.

[0031] Preferably, in this embodiment, the nozzle 10 is designed to be angled. The angled nozzle 10 allows the water to be sprayed onto the surface of the photovoltaic panel 2 at a certain angle, rather than impacting vertically. This spraying method helps to more effectively hit and remove dust, dirt and other contaminants attached to the panel, thereby improving the overall cleaning efficiency.

[0032] Preferably, in this embodiment, telescopic curtains 22 are installed at both ends of the slider 8. The telescopic curtains 22 can extend and retract as the slider 8 and guide block 21 move. The telescopic curtains 22 can act as a physical barrier to protect other key components in the cleaning mechanism (threaded rod 6, slider 8 and guide block 21, etc.) from water mist erosion and other external forces, thereby extending the service life of the equipment.

[0033] Preferably, in this embodiment, a vibration motor 23 is installed at the top of the connecting plate 15. The vibration generated by the vibration motor 23 can effectively loosen stubborn stains, such as bird droppings, tree sap and other pollutants that are difficult to remove, that are attached to the surface of the photovoltaic panel 2. These stains are often difficult to remove completely by the cleaning brush 16 or water flow alone. Vibration can help to break the adhesion between them and the panel surface. The vibration can make the dust and dirt that have been initially scraped off by the cleaning brush 16 more easily fall off the panel surface and be washed away with the water flow, thereby reducing residue and improving the overall cleaning efficiency.

[0034] Preferably, in this embodiment, the cleaning brush 16 is made of nylon. Although nylon has good abrasion resistance, it is relatively soft, which makes it not scratch or damage the surface of the photovoltaic panel 2 when cleaning it. Considering that the photovoltaic panel 2 is usually made of relatively fragile materials, using a soft nylon cleaning brush 16 can effectively protect these expensive components.

[0035] To illustrate the possible application scenarios, technical principles, implementable specific solutions, and achievable objectives and effects of this application in detail, the following description, in conjunction with the listed specific embodiments and accompanying drawings, provides a detailed explanation. The embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of this application and are therefore intended to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0036] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device, comprising a support frame (1), a photovoltaic panel (2), a base (3), and a cleaning mechanism, characterized in that: The support frame (1) is installed at the top of the base (3), and the photovoltaic panel (2) is installed at the top of the support frame (1). The cleaning mechanism is installed on the photovoltaic panel (2). The cleaning mechanism includes a rectangular block (4), a rectangular groove (5), a threaded rod (6), a drive motor (7), a slider (8), a water distribution plate (9), a nozzle (10), a water storage tank (11), a connecting pipe (12), and a pump body (13). The rectangular block (4) is installed at one end of the top wall of the photovoltaic panel (2). The rectangular groove (5) is opened on the side of the rectangular block (4) near the photovoltaic panel (2). The threaded rod (6) is rotatably installed in the rectangular groove (5). The drive motor (7) is installed on one side wall of the rectangular block (4). The output end of the drive motor (7) passes through the side wall of the rectangular block (4) and is connected to the threaded rod (6). The slider (8) is threaded on the threaded rod (6). The water distribution plate (9) is fixedly installed on the side wall of the slider (8). The nozzle (10) is installed on the bottom wall of the water distribution plate (9). The water storage tank (11) is installed on the top wall of the base (3). The connecting pipe (12) is installed on the top of the water storage tank (11). The output end of the connecting pipe (12) passes through the top wall of the water distribution plate (9) and extends into its inner cavity. The pump body (13) is installed on the outer wall of the connecting pipe (12). Telescopic curtains (22) are installed at both ends of the slider (8); The front side wall of the water distribution plate (9) is equipped with a connecting plate (15) through multiple sets of connecting blocks (14), and a cleaning brush (16) is installed on the bottom wall of the connecting plate (15). A vibration motor (23) is installed at the top of the connecting plate (15).

2. The outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A rubber scraper (17) is installed on the bottom wall of the end of the water distribution plate (9) away from the cleaning brush (16).

3. The outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized in that: A guide seat (18) is installed at the other end of the top wall of the photovoltaic panel (2). A groove (19) is provided on the side wall of the guide seat (18) near the rectangular block (4). A guide rod (20) is fixedly installed in the groove (19). A guide block (21) is slidably installed on the guide rod (20). The guide block (21) is fixedly connected to the side wall of the water distribution plate (9) away from the slider (8).

4. The outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The nozzle (10) is designed to be angled.

5. The outdoor photovoltaic equipment surface cleaning device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The cleaning brush (16) is made of nylon.